This is a Bible/FAQ/reference for all those who are new to modifying and unlocking the true potential of their iPod Touch/iPhone.

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INTRODUCTION

You have an iPhone or iPod Touch. You’d like to hack it or unleash its full potential, but you’re not sure where to start. You’re not sure what’ll work with your computer, your device, and what won’t. Is Apple OK with this? Is it illegal? Will apple release a third party program system? After this FAQ/Bible list, you’ll be able to make a final decision on how to hack your unit or whether or not you’ll hack it at all.

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WHAT? AND WHY?

Why would I want to hack my iPod Touch or iPhone?

When Apple first released the iPhone and then the iPod Touch, the company also released a method for third-parties to create applications for the devices. The apps wouldn’t run on the units themselves, but rather one would use Safari on the mobile device to access web sites that would perform basic functions such as simple games, dictionaries, etc. In the end, it wasn’t really software but rather simple web sites, or web apps, designed to work with the iPhone and iPod Touch.

Users worldwide were not OK with this. They wanted to run other programs on the devices other than those supplied by Apple. They also wanted the convenience of not needing a wifi connection to access these 'softwares'. As a result, they figured out a way to install their own programs, allowing users to run programs like Instant Messaging clients, complex games, interactive fiction, and customization apps used to change the look and feel of the Springboard.

What is the SpringBoard?

The SpringBoard typically refers to the homescreen of your iPod Touch or iPhone. More accurately, the SpringBoard is the program that allows you to launch applications from the homescreen.

Why would I not want to hack my iPod Touch or iPhone?

The main reason users choose not to hack their units is because they’re satisfied with their devices as they are. If you see no reason in hacking your unit, why go through the effort? Besides, Apple’s going to release an official third-party app delivery system (SDK) in June (but you may not be happy with the idea of paying for the various applications released through this system or even the restrictions Apple will place in the applications that are allowed to be released).

Is it illegal to hack the iPod Touch or iPhone?

Hacking the iPod Touch is not illegal. While Apple would like to make you think it is illegal, it is not, and it is impossible to get in any legal trouble for hacking it. You and Apple made an exchange. You gave Apple $400 and they gave you an iPod. It is officially yours and you can do whatever you want with it.

It is illegal to post copyrighted code, such as the operating system of the iPod Touch and the iPhone, on the Internet. But you won’t be doing that if you choose to hack your device.

Will this void the iPod Touch / iPhone warranty?

Technically speaking, the warranty is void if you perform any modifications to your device, however, since a full restore through iTunes would erase all tracks of your modifications, Apple would not know whether you have performed any of these jailbreaking methods. In this sense, jailbreaking or modifying your device would not void your warrenty as long as you perform a full restore before sending your device back to an Apple store, etc.

You speak about the iPod Touch and iPhone as if they were the same device or at least very, very similar. What’s the deal with that?

The iPod Touch and the iPhone are very, very similar. They use the same operating system and very similar software. As a result, the main differences between the two are the hardware differences. The iPod Touch is essentially a phone-less, Bluetooh-less, iPhone.

Do the same hacks work with both the iPod Touch and the iPhone?

Yes, but not really. Some hacks have to be tweaked to work with on both devices. Since the iPhone came out a few months before the iPod Touch, hacks existed for versions of earlier firmwares for the iPhone. The latest and greatest iPhone and iPod Touch hacks are all designed or have been upgraded to at least 1.1.1 firmware. As a result, should you choose to hack your unit, you should hold off on updating your device if Apple releases an update to another firmware. Once the firmware is tested with hacking community and it has been deemed safe to upgrade, then you can upgrade with a specific method provided.

So upgrades can mess up the hacks on my iPod Touch or iPhone?

Yes, they can. Although, if you stick to software hacks, anything you do to your unit is repairable through the iTunes firmware restore feature. iTunes, at any moment, can restore your iPod Touch or iPhone to its factory state (however, losing all data saved on the device). As stated above, if you Apple releases an update for your device, hold off on updating until the latest firmware has been tested and approved by the hacking community.

Keep in mind, that when the term “hacks” is used, It is referring to unlocking services for the iPhone or iPod touch. That is a separate issue that will be addressed somewhere down the list.

How can I restore my iPod Touch or iPhone should something go wrong?

Connect your device to your computer via the included USB cable. Open iTunes, click on the iPod or iPhone icon on the left, and click the big restore button somewhere towards the middle of the application. After a short period of time, your device will return to its factory settings.

Unlocking services is a different thing altogether which can potentially cause changes in your iPhone that a restore cannot reverse. As a result, when firmware updates disable the phone functions of an iPhone, the hacking community can generally figure out a way to restore your iPhone to its true factory state.

Note: Sometimes a firmware upgrade may prohibit you from restore to a previous firmware, in this case, you may need to turn your iPod Touch into recovery mode in which you can restore to any firmware (useful when downgrading) [see below].

What if the restore button within iTunes does not work or gives me some sort of error?

In some rare circumstances, the restore feature within iTunes may not be able to restore your iPod Touch in which case you will need to turn your iPod touch into recovery mode.

Recovery Mode:

1. Connect your iPod touch into iTunes through the USB cable.
2. Press and hold both the Hold and Home physical buttons simaltaneously until the screen turns off (black). (Your iPod touch also disappears from iTunes)
3. Release the Hold button whilst still holding the Home button until your iPod touch pops back in iTunes.

iTunes will then detect your iPod touch in recovery mode and ask you to restore it (restore it as usual)

That’s a good question, and a lot of us would like to know the answer to that. Apple has made statements saying they won’t purposefully disable hacks and unlocks with firmware updates, and the company has also warned users that hacks and unlocks will probably get disabled with future updates.

This is a very gray area as Apple has a partnership with AT&T and various carriers around the world to keep locked handsets in the wild. AT&T and others pay Apple for every iPhone that is activated with their service, so it would make sense for Apple to try to stop unlockers from disrupting its revenue.

Apple announced that it will release an official software development kit for the iPhone/Touch platform for third-party developers in February. Many are suspicious that Apple will force third-party developers into a closed system, requiring all third-party developers to get their apps approved by Apple. If Apple chooses to sell those apps through iTunes, it could see the free third-party apps out today as a threat to app sale revenue through iTunes. As a result, it would make sense for Apple to try to stop hacks in future updates.

So Apple is going to ditch the web app concept for true third-party apps?

It isn’t clear if Apple is going to ditch the use of web apps entirely, but it is going to release a software development kit for third-party developers in February of 2008.

The current train of thought is that Apple is going to develop a system in which it will sell third-party apps through iTunes. Apple will, of course, take its share of the cut from each sale. Whether or not free apps will be distributed through this method is unclear. If Apple creates a system that prevents open source and free software from easily making it into our devices, the hacking community will continue to thrive.

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JAILBREAKING

What exactly is jailbreaking?

Jailbreaking refers to breaking the iPod Touch and iPhone free from the clutches of Apple. In other words, gaining read/write access to the devices in order to install your own programs.

What exactly is unlocking?

If you unlock your iPhone, you can use the services of various GSM based carriers around the world.

How do I get the iPhone Apps into my iPod Touch?

Add the repository: www.applerepo.com for all the iPhone applications for 1.1.1/2/3/4. Go to installer, go to the sources tab, go to the top right hand corner, click EDIT, and add the repository. Wait for the sources to finish refreshing and enjoy!

CONTINUED

WHAT TO DO?

After having all my questions answered, I’d like to hack and/or unlock my unit. What do I have to do?

If you have a Mac or PC, the automated jailbreak methods for both the iPhone and iPod Touch can be found in this forum (just search) or you could scroll down this FAQ for a jailbreaking summary for each firmware.

Note: Scroll Down for a summary of all the jailbreaks available.

How do I unlock my iPhone?

To unlock your iPhone, you currently have two options depending on your current firmware.

The paid version can be found easily by searching the terms "iPhoneSIMFree". Since the code is not publicly published as its a private effort, Apple cannot easily examine the way it unlocks the iPhone. Thus, it is less likely that your iPhone will become temporarily unusable if a future update disables it. Even if you find your iPhone disabled with a future update, the iPhoneSIMFree people are pretty quick to update the unlock software at no cost to you.

The free alternative unlock software, anySIM, is more likely to malfunction after a future firmware update. This software isn’t as stable as iPhoneSIMFree but it is free. You can learn more about it and download by searching the term "anySIM".

Typically, software unlocks require you to jailbreak your iPhone first and some unlocks only support a specific firmware.

OK, I jailbreaked my device. Now what?

Now you can run unlock software on your iPhone, and you can install and run third party apps.

If you went through with one of the automatic jailbreak methods above, you should see a program called “Installer” on your SpringBoard, AKA homescreen. Through Installer, you can choose to download and install various free programs, utilities, and games. Simply click on a program in Installer, and it’ll install it on your device. The next time you visit your homescreen, you should see an icon for the app you installed. Installer can also uninstall apps, update apps, and notify you when an update is available for an app you installed.

Note: Some system software has to be installed first such as BSD subsystem in order for most applications to run and/or work.

In order to see more apps, make sure you install “Community Resources”. Resources provide Installer.app with information of databases of third-party apps. Currently, Community Resources is the only resource that I know about that isn’t installed automatically when you jailbreak your device.

Furthermore, some apps require certain components in order to work. Apollo IM, arguably the best instant messaging client for the two devices, requires BSD Subystem to be installed (as stated above).

Installer.app was just updated to version 3.0 final. It now features a better user interface and various other upgrades (such as the ability to build queues). Although most apps in Installer will work on both devices, some are targeted at specific firmwares, and some won’t work at all on the iPod Touch due to hardware limitations such as a phone antenna.

iPodTouchMaster05 Youtube video guides is an excellent source for all sorts of tutorials for modding the iPod Touch / iPhone. You can find the list of guides [ame="http://www.ipodtouchfans.com/forums/showthread.php?t=3332"]here[/ame].

How can I connect to my jailbroken iPod touch / iPhone and access its files (e.g. disk mode)?

Since the iPod touch and iPhone flash memory is formated to a different filesystem format, Apple has essentially prevented users to access these device's files. Nevertheless, there are still two methods by which you can access your device's filesystem and make changes.

WINDOWS AND MAC COMPATIBLE
If you have installed SSH on your iPod Touch / iPhone, then you can use a SSH client such as WinSCP to access its filesystem or input commands through a terminal. However, this requires you to connect to your device through wifi which means you need to have a local wifi connection that is connected to your computer. [ame="http://www.ipodtouchfans.com/forums/showthread.php?t=9978"]More details...[/ame]

WINDOWS ONLY
If you do not have a wifi connection available, you can still edit/access the filesystem through the USB cable provided by apple, (however, you will not be able to input commands). Currently these two softwares do the job pretty well.

~ Total Commander with t-pot plugin. (requires iTunes 7.4 or higher installed and only has a one month free trial after which you have to pay for a full license.) Currently fastest client to transfer through USB (up to 4GB tranfer at a time). [ame="http://www.ipodtouchfans.com/forums/showthread.php?t=15569"]More Details...[/ame]

I have more questions about hacking my mobile Apple product. Where can I get answers?

Search the forums, most of the time someone else has already asked that question and most likely that question has already been answered.

Otherwise, Search it on Google - it's a wonderful tool.

Or... if you still can't find answers, posting a question in the right section may also work.

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IPOD TOUCH / IPHONE TERMINOLOGY

~ Chmod: refers to changing the permission of a file (e.g. to 755).

~ SSH: SSH stands for Secure Shell. It allows you to connect to your iPod Touch
over a WiFi connection using a SSH client such as Putty. Through SSH,
you can access your iPod Touch's file system or input commands through
a terminal.

Firmware 1.1.2 - In order to jailbreak 1.1.2 you need to downgrade to 1.1.1 and jailbreak using the "jailbreakme.com" method then installing "oktoprep" in installer.

Then you can hold <shift> and press the update button (NOT restore) within iTunes and choose the 1.1.2 firmware.

After you have updated your firmware to 1.1.2, make sure your iPod touch / iPhone is still connected to your computer. Make sure you end all processors that are related to iTunes such as "appledevice..." (this will ensure a successful jailbreak that will work will even work with iTunes 7.6).

Finally, download the following zip file here and unzip it to a folder on your desktop. For Windows users, run the .bat cmd file which will start the jailbreak.jar file and start the process.[ame="http://www.ipodtouchfans.com/forums/showthread.php?t=8664"]More details...[/ame]

Everyday new Touch owners stumble upon the Jailbreak System and after following one of these well written guides do not know what to do next after jailbreaking their Touch. At my time in this forum, many always have these questions: "What should I download Next?" "What Apps are must-haves?" "Where should I get started?"

It can all seem a bit overwhelming, so I felt this guide could help many. It should serve as a brief overview that one could build upon...

For a great list of sources with many apps, add this sourcehttp://blazeco.info/blaze.xml
Then, you will get this category, under installer, Blaze Software
Select it then install Blaze Ultimate (refreshing takes a bit)

Later on delete some sources you don't need, but this gives you many different apps to choose from.
Now, look at this list, *Bold means a Category in Installer
*(items in parenthesis gives a brief of overview of the function of the app)

Note: Later versions of customize are coming aimed at 1.1.3 and 1.1.4 users so all of you with these customize woes rejoice New functions, appearance, and more are all in testing (Beta) so give it time

Note: With refreshing sources, it can be lengthened greatly by a greater amount, so for faster refreshing times look here. It requires a bit of maintenance but refreshing times go down to a matter of seconds.

2) Make sure you are on a clean 2.0.1 firmware. YOU NEED TO BE ON 2.0.1 TO USE THIS TUTORIAL. IT WILL NOT UPGRADE FOR YOU. YOU CANNOT USE THIS TUTORIAL FROM 1.1.1/2/3/4 You do not need to restore before this if you don't want to lose music, contacts, etc, but it is recommended.

3) Extract the contents of BOTH of the .zip's above to a folder on your Desktop

4) Put the 2.0.1 firmware file into the folder you extracted the .zip to

5) Plug your iPod in, but close iTunes when it pops up

6) For safety, open the task manager and close all processes that contain the words "Apple", "iTunes", or "iPod"

7) Run the QuickPwnGUI120.exe

8) Select "iPod Touch" from the GUI that pops up (Or "iPhone" for 2G, "iPhone 3G" for 3G)

9) Select "Browse" and find the 2.0.1 firmware file when the next step appears

10) Select the "Add Cydia" and "Add Installer". If you want the Pwnapple boot logo, then select "Replace Boot Logos". If not, deselect

11) Select "Go!" and get ready to roll

12) A command line should pop up. Be patient with it, it takes a while to take in and prepare all the data. You will have to answer some questions and follow some directions. It's not to difficult, so I'll leave you on your own. If you need help, PM me or ask me to post it.
* Do not exit until it closes automatically. As soon as the "Processes" part starts, you can release the home button.

13) If this tutorial worked for you, post it here! I enjoy reading your thanks. If you have any problems with anything after jailbreaking or a little bit of use, PM and I'll be happy to help as best I can. I've come across most problems and might be able to help you find a solution!

2) Make sure you are on a clean 2.0.2 firmware. YOU NEED TO BE ON 2.0.2 TO USE THIS TUTORIAL. IT WILL NOT UPGRADE FOR YOU. YOU CANNOT USE THIS TUTORIAL FROM 1.1.1/2/3/4. You do not need to restore before this if you don't want to lose music, contacts, etc, but it is recommended.

3) Extract the contents of both of the .zip's above to a folder on your Desktop

4) Put the 2.0.2 firmware file into the folder you extracted the .zip to

5) Plug your iPod in, but close iTunes when it pops up

6) For safety, open the task manager and close all processes that contain the words "Apple", "iTunes", or "iPod"

7) Run the QuickPwnGUI120.exe

8) Select "iPod Touch" from the GUI that pops up (Or "iPhone" for 2G, "iPhone 3G" for 3G)

9) Select "Browse" and find the 2.0.2 firmware file when the next step appears

10) Select the "Add Cydia" and "Add Installer". If you want the Pwnapple boot logo, then select "Replace Boot Logos". If not, deselect

11) Select "Go!" and get ready to roll

12) A command line should pop up. Be patient with it, it takes a while to take in and prepare all the data. You will have to answer some questions and follow some directions. It's not to difficult, so I'll leave you on your own. If you need help, PM me or ask me to post it.
* Do not exit until it closes automatically. As soon as the "Processes" part starts, you can release the home button.

13) If this tutorial worked for you, post it here! I enjoy reading your thanks. If you have any problems with anything after jailbreaking or a little bit of use, PM and I'll be happy to help as best I can. I've come across most problems and might be able to help you find a solution!

- For those who installed WinterBoard and get gray fonts, download White Winterboard fonts and extract and add to your themes which are found at /private/var/stash/Themes

OFFICIAL QUICKPWN FOR 2.1!
THIS GUIDE IS FOR WINDOWS USERS ONLY!

Make sure you have firmware 2.1 and Quickpwn 2.1 which you can download here

1. Open up Quickpwn 2.1
2. Plug in your iPod.
3. Follow the steps on quickpwn. (when you are at select firmware 2.1 it should already be at the place where your bundles are)
4. Wait a little while
5. Done!

Have fun with your newly pwned iPod
Courtesy of the Dev Team

MORPHEYS QUICKPWN FOR 2.1!
THIS GUIDE IS FOR WINDOWS USERS ONLY!

Make sure you have firmware 2.1 and Morpheys quickpwn which you can download here

1. Open up Morpheys Quickpwn
2. Plug in your iPod.
3. Follow the steps on quickpwn. (when it comes up to select your firmware, look at the top of this page to find out where your firmwares are)
4. Wait a little while
5. Done!

Then google it. and if you upgrade to 2.0 or higher, you can put appstore applications on your ipod/iphone. But if you want to have themes and change your backround, then you have to jailbreak. Unlocking is freeing your sim cad for use with another carrier.

Originally Posted by bhz1

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